Refreshment Vehicle Licensing Review

The City is currently reviewing its Business Licensing By-Law as it relates to refreshment vehicles such as food trucks, with a specific focus on where such vehicles are licensed to operate within the community. Changes to the by-law could possibly expand the potential locations such vehicles are allowed to operate, particularly on private property.

Please continue reading to learn more about current restrictions on the licensing of refreshment vehicles and how you can provide your insight.

What is a refreshment vehicle?

A refreshment vehicle is a vehicle from which food and/or beverages are sold to the public. Vehicle types could include, but are not limited to:

• Carts
• Wagons
• Trucks
• Tricycles
• Mobile canteens
• Trailers

Current restrictions for the licensing of refreshment vehicles

The Business Licensing By-law places several restrictions on refreshment vehicles. Such vehicles cannot:

• operate within six metres of a building entrance or bus stop;
• operate on City property without City approval;
• operate within 90 metres of a restaurant serving similar items;
• operate without a license; and
• operate within 180 metres of another licensed refreshment vehicle

Other limitations on refreshment vehicles

There are other limitations that can impact the operation and location of refreshment vehicles in the community, including:

• Permitted property uses under the Zoning By-Law
• Space, operational, and infrastructure limitations of public land
• Existing agreements with vehicles operating in public spaces
• Traffic and parking requirements and regulations

Provide your insight

Please complete the short survey below by March 7 to better inform our review of the Business Licensing By-Law as it relates to refreshment vehicles.

Written comments can also be submitted to the City Clerk's Office via email to clerks@sarnia.ca